What is Yantra Yoga

Yantra Yoga

is one of the oldest recorded systems of yoga in the world. It has come to us by way of Tibet, a land that holds a vast, rich Buddhist knowledge and heritage. Yantra Yoga’s unique series of positions and movements, combined with conscious breathing, can help coordinate and harmonize one’s personal energy so that the mind can relax and find its authentic balance. Many positions used in Yantra Yoga are similar to those of Hatha Yoga, but the way to assume and apply them differs significantly. Yantra Yoga uses a sequence that consists of seven phases of movement, connected with seven phases of breathing. In particular, the position in the central phase of each movement helps create specific retentions of the breath that work at a deep, subtle level. For this reason it is not only the main position, but this holding and the entire movement that are important.

The system of Yantra Yoga contains a wide range of movements that can be applied by everyone. It is a superb method for attaining optimal health, relaxation, and balance through the coordination of breath and movement. This fundamental and rich method is connected with the profound essence of the Dzogchen Teachings, although a Yantra Yoga practitioner does not necessarily need to follow a particular spiritual path, therefore anyone can practice it without limitation. It has been offered for the help of finding the true natural state.

For more information about the Dzogchen teachings, please visit www.dzogchen.net

Yantra Yoga Lineage

History of Yantra Yoga:

Yantra Yoga is based on the ancient text Nyida Khajor, known in English as “The Union of the Sun and Moon.” This text was written in the 8th century by Vairocana, one of the most skilled Buddhist Masters and translators of his time. This teaching has been passed down from teacher to student, in an unbroken lineage, since that time. The current lineage holder, Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, a renowned cultural scholar and Dzogchen Master, has been transmitting Yantra Yoga in the West since the early 1970’s. He wrote a detailed commentary to the essential root text in 1976, which was based on the extensive personal training and understanding of Yantra Yoga that he received directly from his uncle, Togden Ugyen Tendzin, and other teachers in Tibet. His marvelous and complete text, called A Stainless Mirror of Jewels, has been published in his book entitled Yantra Yoga: The Tibetan Yoga of Movement.